We are proud of the many outstanding IRA members who have
joined together in the IRA CL/R SIG so that
together we can make a difference in improving literacy through advocating
for the use of childrens literature.

The first step in leadership in this group is becoming
a member. Because we are a special interest group of the International
Reading Association, membership in IRA is required. Our members also must
subscribe
to The Dragon Lode.

We encourage you to share your love of childrens books with all
others you come in contact with, to encourage parents to read hundreds
of books to their children so that they are thousand book children
by the time they begin formal schooling. We suggest that you share books
with those you love, giving them as gifts to individuals and schools,
and that you yourself let others know in multiple ways that you love reading
and you love books! Encourage teachers you know to share excellent books
with their students and to help them get hooked on literacy. There are
lots of excellent ideas for all of these things in The
Dragon Lode.

Our website has manyideas
for simple things YOU can do to make a difference in spreading the good
word about childrens literature and reading and this group. You
might even be interested in forming
a special interest council (SIC) to focus on childrens
literature and reading in your state! (SIGs are groups within IRA;
SICs are affiliate councils within a state or provincial council.)

If you are interested in an official leadership position in this group
(we hope you are!) so that you can experience being part of a larger team
with opportunities to share your successes with others, then please join
the IRA
CL/R SIG Network.

As you become comfortable with our group, and if your goals and ours match,
perhaps you would be interested in service on one of our committees
or perhaps you would like to run for an office or a position on our Board
of Directors (let the nominations
chair know
of your interest).

As in all of the IRA councils and special interest groups, active participation
and involvement is a key to leadership development. It is our hope that
as you help us grow, we in turn will help you grow!